Archbishop Ioan's message of condolence on the passing of Patriarch Ilia II of Georgia

2026-03-18 16:30:00, Aktualitet CNA

Archbishop Ioan's message of condolence on the passing of Patriarch Ilia II

The Archbishop of Tirana, Durrës and All Albania, Joan, has sent a letter of condolence to Metropolitan Shio, Locum Tenens of the Patriarchal Throne of Georgia, on the occasion of the passing of the Patriarch-Catholicos of All Georgia, Ilia II.

In his message of condolence, Archbishop Ioan described the late Patriarch as "our most beloved brother in the Lord," appreciating his extraordinary contribution to the leadership of the Church of Georgia for nearly five decades.

He emphasized that Ilia II led the Church with wisdom, patience, and deep faith, especially during the difficult period of Soviet oppression.

According to the Archbishop, Patriarch Ilia II managed to rebuild the Church from the ruins, building churches and monasteries, as well as inspiring believers to return to the faith of their fathers.

Archbishop Ioan also expressed his condolences to the Holy Synod, the clergy and the faithful of the Church of Georgia. As a sign of respect, a requiem mass was held in the chapel of the Archbishopric for the repose of the soul of the late Patriarch.

Archbishop's Message

Your Excellency,

It is with deep sorrow that we received the news of the repose in the Lord of our most beloved brother and fellow servant, the Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, His Beatitude and Holiness Ilia II, who for nearly five decades led the Church of Georgia with wisdom, patience and deep faith. He was distinguished for his righteous character, devotion to the Orthodox tradition, love for the believing people of Georgia and unwavering commitment to the unity of Orthodoxy.

Taking up the patriarchal office during the difficult period of Soviet oppression, the late Patriarch Ilia led his flock “which he loved” with self-sacrifice and wisdom, raising the Church from the ruins, building churches and monasteries, and inspiring the people of God to return to the faith of their fathers.

We express our heartfelt condolences to the Holy Synod, the pious clergy and the believing people of the Church of Georgia. May God grant his noble soul rest “in the tents of the righteous.” May his memory be eternal!

With sincere love in Christ, Archbishop of Tirana, Durrës and all Albania, Joan